This semester, our task is to delve deeper into our topics and begin prototyping. By the end of the semester, we should have a refined prototype, which we’ll present through a short video. Although we’re expected to jump straight into prototyping, I wanted to start with some ideation first, as I wasn’t sure what I wanted to work on. Here’s a summary of my ideation phase.
Instead of using formal ideation techniques, I decided to sit down, reread my blog posts, and review my notes. From this brainstorming session, I came up with a few possible approaches:
- WebSus: This idea is for a website focused on sustainable web design and development. The website itself would be designed to be as efficient and accessible as possible, minimizing energy consumption. The content would cover topics like low-impact design, planet-centered design, sustainable UX (SUX), accessibility, and green coding. It would also provide toolkits, frameworks, and resources for web designers and developers interested in sustainability.
- DigiNap: This would be a mobile and computer application that reminds users to take breaks from their devices by turning them off. The goal is to encourage users to take breaks from the digital world, with the timing of breaks based on their screen time. For example, a 10-15 minute break every 1.5 hours.
- Digital Activities Tracker: This background application for smartphones and computers would track the user’s internet usage, including downloads and uploads. It would convert the data into an easy-to-understand and relatable unit to raise awareness about the environmental impact of their digital activities.
- Fake News Alarm: This background application would scan the content of opened webpages and highlight potential misinformation. If potential fake news is found, the application would display a trustworthy scientific source disproving the statement via a hover effect.
- Focused UI/UX: This would be a non-distracting user interface and experience launcher for Android-based smartphones and tablets. All the features of the smartphone would still be available, but without flashy icons, pop-ups, and other distractions.
While these ideas aren’t fully fleshed out and some may not be entirely realistic, I need to develop 2-3 low-fidelity prototypes before the next class. Therefore, I’ll work with what I have. I’ll write about and showcase my lofi prototypes in the next blog post. Cheers!
